U.S. patent application number 12/899383 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-03 for seated exercise apparatus.
Invention is credited to Christopher Merli.
Application Number | 20110028277 12/899383 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43527557 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110028277 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Merli; Christopher |
February 3, 2011 |
SEATED EXERCISE APPARATUS
Abstract
A seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a seat
attached to the frame. A pair of opposed cranks are rotatably
coupled to the frame such that they rotate about a first axis. A
medial portion of each of a pair of elongated members is rotatably
connected to the frame at a second axis. A first end of each
elongated member has a handle and a second end of each elongated
member is rotatably connected to a one end of a respective pedal
arm. The handles may be adjustable to invert the handles from an
upper position to a lower position. The other end of each pedal arm
is in turn rotatably connected to a respective crank. Each pedal
arm also has a pedal adapted to receive a user's foot. In
operation, the apparatus provides the user with coordinated seated
exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet.
Inventors: |
Merli; Christopher;
(Boulder, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Vista IP Law Group LLP
2040 MAIN STREET, Suite 710
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
43527557 |
Appl. No.: |
12/899383 |
Filed: |
October 6, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12209016 |
Sep 11, 2008 |
7815551 |
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12899383 |
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60993534 |
Sep 13, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/63 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0051 20130101;
A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 21/225 20130101; A63B 22/001 20130101;
A63B 21/012 20130101; A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B 21/00069
20130101; A63B 21/0088 20130101; A63B 21/0053 20130101; A63B 22/06
20130101; A63B 2071/025 20130101; A63B 23/03575 20130101; A63B
2225/09 20130101; A63B 22/0605 20130101; A63B 2208/0233 20130101;
A63B 2022/067 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/63 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/12 20060101
A63B022/12 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for exercising having a first axis toward the rear
end of the apparatus and a second axis toward the front end of the
apparatus, comprising: a frame, said first axis being on said frame
and being substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of
said apparatus; a seat attached to said frame, said seat adapted to
support a user in a seated position; first and second cranks, each
said crank having a first and second end, each of said first ends
of said first and second cranks rotatably coupled to the frame at
said first axis such that the first and second cranks rotate about
said first axis; first and second elongated members each having a
first end, a second end, and a medial portion, said medial portion
of said first elongated member rotatably connected to said frame
and configured to rotate about said second axis which is
substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, said medial
portion of said second elongated member rotatably connected to said
frame and configured to rotate about said second axis; first and
second pedal arms each having a first end, a second end and a pivot
portion between said first end and said second end, said first end
of said first pedal arm rotatably connected to said second end of
said first crank, said pivot portion of said first pedal arm
rotatably connected to said second end of said first elongated
member at a first pivot, said first end of said second pedal arm
rotatably connected to said second end of said second crank, said
pivot portion of said second pedal arm rotatably connected to said
second end of said second elongated member at a second pivot; first
and second pedals each configured to support the foot of a seated
user, said first pedal operably connected to said first pedal arm
proximate said second end of said first pedal arm, whereby said
pedals move in a generally reciprocating pattern along a path that
is self-intersecting at least one point along said path.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a major axis of said path
forms an acute angle of greater than 45 degrees from
horizontal.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said path is in the shape of an
elongated figure eight.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising; a first handle
attached to said first end of said first elongated member; and a
second handle attached to said first end of said second elongated
member.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein said first and second handles
are adjustable between an upper position and a lower position, the
upper position being higher than the lower position, relative to
the first end of the elongated member to which the handles are
attached.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said first end of said first
elongated member has a first slider tube and a first locking
device, said first handle comprises a first tubular portion, a
first vertical grip and a first horizontal grip, said first tubular
portion slidably received within said first slider tube, and said
first locking device configured to releasably lock the said first
handle in a fixed position on said first end of said first
elongated member; and said first end of said second elongated
member has a second slider tube and a second locking device, said
second handle comprises a second tubular portion, a second vertical
grip and a second horizontal grip, said second tubular portion
slidably received within said second slider tube, and said second
locking device configured to releasably lock said second handle in
a fixed position on said first end of said second elongated
member.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first pedal is rigidly
connected to said first pedal arm, and said second pedal is rigidly
connected to said second pedal arm.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first pedal is rotatably
connected to said first pedal arm, and said second pedal is
rotatably connected to said second pedal arm.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a pulley to which
said first and second cranks are attached, said pulley rotatably
connected to said frame and configured to rotate about said first
axis.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 further comprising a load resistance
device operably coupled to said pulley and configured to provide an
adjustable load resistance on said pulley.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first pedal is operably
connected to said first pedal arm in front of said first pivot
12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an adjustable load
resistance device operably coupled to said first and second
cranks.
13. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a flywheel
operably engaged to said pulley via a belt.
14. An apparatus for exercising having a first axis toward the rear
end of the apparatus and a second axis toward the front end of the
apparatus, comprising: a frame, said first axis being on said frame
and being substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of
said apparatus; a seat attached to said frame, said seat adapted to
support a user in a seated position; first and second cranks, each
said crank having a first and second end, each of said first ends
of said first and second cranks rotatably coupled to the frame at
said first axis such that the first and second cranks rotate about
said first axis; first and second elongated members each having a
first end, a second end, and a medial portion, said medial portion
of said first elongated member rotatably connected to said frame
and configured to rotate about said second axis which is
substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis, said medial
portion of said second elongated member rotatably connected to said
frame and configured to rotate about said second axis, said first
end having a slider tube; a first handle having a first tubular
portion, and a first grip, said first tubular portion slidably
received within said slider tube of said first elongated member,
said first handle being adjustable between an upper position and a
lower position, the upper position being higher than the lower
position relative to the first end of the first elongated member; a
first locking device configured to releasably lock said first
handle in a fixed position on said first end of said first
elongated member; a second handle having a second tubular portion,
and a second grip, said second tubular portion slidably received
within said slider tube of said second elongated member, said
second handle being adjustable between an upper position and a
lower position, the upper position being higher than the lower
position relative to the first end of the second elongated member;
a second locking device configured to releasably lock said second
handle in a fixed position on said first end of said second
elongated member; first and second pedal arms each having a first
end, a second end and a pivot portion between said first end and
said second end, said first end of said first pedal arm rotatably
connected to said second end of said first crank, said pivot
portion of said first pedal arm rotatably connected to said second
end of said first elongated member at a first pivot, said first end
of said second pedal arm rotatably connected to said second end of
said second crank, said pivot portion of said second pedal arm
rotatably connected to said second end of said second elongated
member at a second pivot; first and second pedals each configured
to support the foot of a seated user, said first pedal operably
connected to said first pedal arm proximate said second end of said
first pedal arm, whereby said pedals move in a generally
reciprocating pattern along a path.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said path is
self-intersecting at least one point along said path.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein a major axis of said path
forms an acute angle of greater than 45 degrees from
horizontal.
17. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said path is in the shape of
an elongated figure eight.
18. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said first pedal is rigidly
connected to said first pedal arm, and said second pedal is rigidly
connected to said second pedal arm.
19. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said first pedal is rotatably
connected to said first pedal arm, and said second pedal is
rotatably connected to said second pedal arm.
20. The apparatus of claim 14 further comprising a pulley to which
said first and second cranks are attached, said pulley rotatably
connected to said frame and configured to rotate about said first
axis.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/209,016, filed Sep. 11, 2008, now U.S. Pat.
No. ______, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional
Application No. 60/993,534, filed on Sep. 13, 2007. Priority to the
aforementioned applications is hereby expressly claimed in
accordance with 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e), 120, and any other
applicable laws. The aforementioned applications are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a seated exercise apparatus
which is operated in a seated position and which includes foot
pedals that move in a reciprocating motion coordinated with handles
that move in a reciprocating motion.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The benefits of regular exercise are well known and there is
always a search for a full body exercise device that can achieve
maximum benefit to the user while minimizing impact on their
joints. Historically recumbent and upright exercise cycles have
been a low impact way of achieving cardiovascular benefit.
Recumbent cycles offer the user a much more safe, comfortable and
easy-to-use device than an upright exercise cycle and have become
very popular among the aging population. More recently recumbent
exercise devices have been developed to include a reciprocating or
elliptical foot motion.
[0004] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,514,053 to Hawkins shows a
recumbent exercise device with stepping motion but no articulation
for the foot. U.S. Pat. No. 5,106,081 to Webb shows a leg exercise
machine with an arc motion that is associated with a weight stack.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,790,162 Ellis et al. shows a recumbent stepper with
independently moving arms. U.S. Pat. No. 6,932,745 to Ellis shows a
recumbent exercise apparatus with arcuate foot motion.
[0005] Yet another group of recumbent exercise apparatus' has
emerged that include coordinated arm movement to achieve a full
body workout and, therefore, a higher level of cardiovascular
benefit. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,356,356, 6,042,518, and 6,666,799 all to
Hildebrandt et al. show a recumbent apparatus with stepping motion
and coordinated arm movement. U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,758 to Rodgers,
Jr. shows a recumbent exercise apparatus with elliptical pedal
motion using a crank, reciprocating member and roller/track to
guide a pedal/foot member pivotally connected to the reciprocating
member and includes coordinated arm member movement. U.S. Pat. No.
5,836,855 to Eschenbach, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,938,570 and 6,409,635
both to Maresh et al., and U.S. Patent Application No.
US2004/0259692 to Martin et al. each show pedal movements for a
semi-recumbent exerciser. U.S. Patent Application No. 2007/0099764
to Eschenbach describes a recumbent device with elliptical foot
motion. The elliptical foot motion is achieved by means of a track
system in the preferred embodiment. In an alternative embodiment,
elliptical motion is achieved by connection to a rocker link. U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,077,197 and 6,283,895 both to Stearns et al. show
inclined pedals and elliptical foot motion where the user is
stabilized by leaning against a back support. U.S. Pat. No.
5,916,065 to McBride et al. shows a traditional stand up elliptical
configured for use by a seated operator.
[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for a seated exercise apparatus
with reciprocating foot movement in a generally up and down motion
that allows the feet of the user to be generally outside of the
bending knee to reduce stress in this area while allowing the foot
to articulate in a relatively natural motion. Furthermore, there is
a need for a simple, easy to manufacture linkage design without the
use of expensive rollers and tracking systems to achieve this
motion. Finally there is a need for an apparatus with coordinated
arms which do not interfere with the operator's access to the
seated area, so that the aging population can use the device
without having to get around the moving arms.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention is directed to a seated exercise
apparatus. The seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a
seat attached to the frame. The seat is configured to support a
user in a relatively upright seated position. The frame may include
a base portion, which is typically configured to rest firmly on the
floor thereby supporting the apparatus. A longitudinal axis of the
frame is defined as the axis through the middle of the seat and in
the direction along which the seat (and thus the user) faces. The
apparatus has a first side located on one side of the longitudinal
axis and a second side located on the opposing side of the
longitudinal axis. The front of the apparatus (in the direction the
seat and seated user face) is defined as the proximal direction,
and the back of the apparatus is defined as the distal
direction.
[0008] First and second cranks are rotatably coupled to the frame
in an opposed position such that they rotate about a first axis
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first and
second cranks may be attached to a pulley which is in turn
rotatably mounted to the frame such that it rotates about the first
axis.
[0009] A first elongated member having a first end, a second end,
and a medial portion is disposed on the first side of the
apparatus. The medial portion of the first elongated member is
rotatably connected to the frame such that the first elongated
member may rotate about a second axis which is substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame. Similarly, a
second elongated member having a first end, a second end, and a
medial portion is disposed on the second side of the apparatus. The
second elongated member is rotatably connected to the frame at the
medial portion of the second elongated member such that the second
elongated member also may rotate about the second axis. Optionally,
each first end of the elongated members has a handle for the user
to hold with each hand. The medial portion of the first and second
elongated members may be positioned proximal the seat.
[0010] A first pedal arm having a first end, a second end and pivot
portion is disposed on the first side of the apparatus distal of
the first elongated member. The first end of the first pedal arm is
rotatably connected to the second end of the first crank. A pedal
configured to support the foot of the user is operably connected to
the first pedal arm proximate the second end of the pedal arm. The
pivot portion of the first pedal arm is rotatably connected to the
second end of the first elongated member, such that a downward
force on the pedal causes (i) the first crank to rotate about the
first axis, (ii) the first elongated member to rotate about the
second axis, (iii) and the first pedal to move in a steep up and
down reciprocating motion.
[0011] Likewise, a second pedal arm having a first end, a second
end and a pivot portion is disposed on the second side of the
apparatus distal of the second elongated member. The first end of
the second pedal arm is rotatably connected to the second end of
the second crank. The pivot portion of the second pedal arm is
rotatably connected to the second end of the second elongated
member, such that a downward force on the pedal causes (i) the
second crank to rotate about the first axis, (ii) the second
elongated member to rotate about the second axis, (iii) and the
second pedal to move in a steep up and down reciprocating motion.
In one embodiment, the first and second pedals move along an
elongated curvilinear (generally elliptical) having a major axis
(the longest diameter of the shape) that is more vertical than
horizontal.
[0012] In another embodiment of the invention, the first and second
pedals move along an elongated curvilinear path that is
self-intersecting. In other words, the path intersects itself at
some point along the path such that a point on the pedal is in the
same position at two different points along the path.
[0013] In still another aspect of the present invention, the
handles are invertible such that they can be placed in an upper
position or a lower position, the upper position being higher than
the lower position, relative to the first end of the elongated
member to which the handles are attached. In the upper position,
the movement of the handles exercises the shoulders and back, and
in the lower position, the movement of the handles exercises the
biceps and triceps.
[0014] As the pedals are reciprocated up and down, the handles, if
provided, move in coordination with the motion of the cranks
resulting in an arcuate motion of the handles about the second
axis.
[0015] Thus, the present invention provides the user with
coordinated seated exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet.
The feet move in a generally reciprocating motion and articulate in
a manner which is natural to the preferred movement of the ankle.
If handles are provided, the user's hands and arms are coordinated
with this foot motion in a generally arcuate motion.
[0016] Additional aspects and features of the seated exercise
apparatus and related mechanisms of the present invention will
become apparent from the drawings and detailed description provided
below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The invention is illustrated by way of example and not
limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which
like reference numbers refer to similar elements, and in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the
present invention.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of still another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 5 is an enlarged, partial side elevation view of the
embodiment of FIG. 4, showing the pedal paths.
[0023] FIG. 6 is an enlarged, partial perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 4, showing the adjustable handles.
[0024] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, partial side view of the embodiment
of FIG. 4, showing the adjustable handles in the upper
position.
[0025] FIG. 8 is an enlarged, partial side view of the embodiment
of FIG. 4, showing the adjustable handles in the lower
position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary embodiment of a
seated exercise apparatus 30 is shown. The seated exercise
apparatus 30 comprises a frame 1 which may be constructed of any
suitably strong material, such as steel, aluminum, composite, or
other suitable material(s). The frame 1 includes a base portion
which extends from the back or distal end to the front or proximal
end of the apparatus 30, along a longitudinal axis extending
through the middle of the seat 6. The longitudinal axis also
divides the apparatus horizontally into a first side on one side of
the longitudinal axis and a second side on the other side of the
longitudinal axis. In other words, the first side of the apparatus
30 is the right side of the user seated in the seat 6, and the
second side is the left side, or vice versa. The base portion has
four feet having adjustable heights which provide for a firm and
stable foundation on a support surface such as the floor, and also
allows for some leveling of the apparatus 1. The frame 1 further
includes a plurality of risers, including in this exemplary
embodiment, a front riser 40, a seat riser 42, and a crank riser
44.
[0027] A seat 6 is attached to the seat riser. The seat 6 and seat
riser 42 may be configured to adjust the seat position. In this
example, the seat riser 42 includes a plurality of positions which
adjust the seat's vertical and horizontal position so that the seat
6 can be adjusted to fit the particular user. The seat 6 may
include a seat back. The seat 6 is oriented to position the user in
a substantially upright seated position.
[0028] A first crank 7 and second crank 8, each having a first end,
and a second end are arranged substantially opposed to each other
and positioned below and distal the seat 6. The first end of the
first and second cranks 7, 8 are rotatably coupled to the frame 1
at the crank riser 44, such as through an axle, sleeve and
bearings, or other suitable structure, such that the first and
second cranks 7, 8 rotate about a first axis 2 defined by the axle,
where the first axis 2 is substantially perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis of the apparatus 30. The first crank 7 and second
crank 8 are typically disposed on opposing sides of the axle. The
first and second cranks 7, 8 may be rotatably coupled to the frame
through attachment to pulley 3 which is coupled to the frame using,
for example, an axle, sleeve, and bearings, or other suitable
structure.
[0029] A flywheel 22 is rotatably coupled to the frame 1 at the
crank riser 44 through a pivot axis 23, below and slightly proximal
of the pulley 22 and first and second cranks 7, 8. The flywheel 22
is operably coupled to the pulley 3 by a belt 4. The belt 4 may be
a chain, a belt, or other suitable, flexible engagement. An
adjustable load resistance device 32 is operably coupled to the
flywheel 22, and in turn to the pulley 3, to provide an adjustable
load resistance on the pulley 3. The load resistance device 32 may
use magnetic resistance, friction, an alternator, a fan, or other
suitable adjustable load resistance mechanism. The load resistance
device 32 may be operably coupled to a user console 24 configured
to adjust the load resistance.
[0030] A first elongated member 15 having is provided on the first
side of the apparatus 30. The first elongated member 15 includes a
first end 34, a second end 38, and a medial portion 36. The first
end 34 is positioned generally proximal of a seated user and to the
outside of the seat 6. The first end 34 has a handle 20 for a user
to grip with their right hand. The first elongated member 15
extends from the handle 20 in a forward direction toward the
proximal end of the apparatus 30. The medial portion 36 of the
first elongated member 15 is positioned proximal the seat 6 and
extends generally vertically downward so that it provides room for
a user to mount the seat 6 without being hindered by the first
elongated member 15 or the handle 20. The medial portion 36 is
rotatably connected to the frame 6 at the front riser 40 at a
second axis 19 which is transverse to the longitudinal axis, such
that the first elongated member 15 rotates about the second axis
19. The first elongated member 15 then extends from the generally
vertical medial potion 36 through a curved portion and along a
generally horizontal portion to the second end 38, which is
positioned near the bottom of the apparatus 30.
[0031] A second elongated member 16 is disposed on the second side
of the apparatus 30, and is a mirror image of the first elongated
member 15, in both structure and coupling to the apparatus 30. The
second elongated member 16 includes a first end 50, a second end
54, and a medial portion 52. The first end 50 is positioned
generally proximal of a seated user and to the outside of the seat
6. The first end 50 has a handle 21 for a user to grip with their
right hand. The second elongated member 16 extends from the handle
21 in a forward direction toward the proximal end of the apparatus
30. The medial portion 52 of the second elongated member 16 is
positioned proximal the seat 6 and extends generally vertically
downward so that it provides room for a user to mount the seat 6
without being hindered by the second elongated member 16 or the
handle 21. The medial portion 52 is rotatably connected to the
frame 6 at the front riser 40 at the second axis 19, such that the
second elongated member 16 rotates about the second axis 19. The
second elongated member 16 then extends from the generally vertical
medial potion 52 through a curved portion and along a generally
horizontal portion to the second end 54, which is positioned near
the bottom of the apparatus 30.
[0032] In another embodiment (not shown in the figures), the seated
exercise apparatus 30 can be provided without handles 20 and 21 on
the elongated members 15 and 16. In this embodiment, the elongated
members 15 and 16 may end at the medial portions 36 and 52,
respectively, or they may even end at the connection to the second
axis 19. The seated exercise apparatus provide a leg exercise,
only. In another aspect, the handles 20 and 21 may be removably
attached to the elongated members 20 and 21, such that they could
be installed if the user wants to use them, or removed if the user
does not want to use them. The removable handles 20 and 21 include
the upper portion of the elongated members 15 and 16, including the
first ends 34 and 50. Then, the handles 20 and 21, and the upper
portion of the elongated members 15 and 16 are removably coupled to
the elongated members 20 and 21 at or proximate the connection to
the second axis 19. For example, the handles 20 and 21 may each
include a tube having a lower end that is coaxially received
(inside or outside) by the upper end of the elongated members 15
and 16. A locking device can be used to lock the handles 20 and 21
in place on the elongated members 15 and 16. The locking device
could be a spring loaded pin and detent mechanism, a locking screw,
or other suitable device.
[0033] A first pedal arm 9 having a first end 60, a second end 62,
and a pivot portion 64 is disposed on the first side of the
apparatus 30, with the first end 60 distal of the first elongated
member 15 and the second end 62 proximal of the second end 38 of
the first elongated member 15. The first end 60 of the pedal arm 9
is rotatably connected to the second end of the first crank 7 at
pivot 11. The pivot portion 64 of the first pedal arm 9 is
rotatably connected to the second end 38 of the first elongated
member 15 at pivot 17. A first pedal 13 configured to support the
right foot of the user is operably connected to the first pedal arm
15 proximate the second end 62 of the first pedal arm 9. The
location of the pivot 17 relative to the first pedal 13 will
determine the up and down motion of the first pedal 13, and can be
changed according to the present invention. For example, if the
pivot 17 is located distal of the first pedal 13, the first pedal
13 will have a reciprocating motion up and down in a generally
elliptical path. If the first pedal 13 is placed directly over the
pivot 17, then the first pedal 13 will move in a reciprocating
motion up and down motion in an arcuate path. The more the pivot 17
is moved distally of the first pedal 13, the more elliptical the
pedal path will be. Thus, a downward force on the first pedal 13
causes the first crank 7 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction
about the first axis 2, in turn the first elongated member 15
rotates about the second axis 19, and the first pedal 13 moves in a
steep up and down reciprocating motion (which may be arcuate or
elliptical). The rotation of the first elongated member 15 about
the second axis 19 causes the handle 20 to move through a
reciprocating arcuate motion, which provides for coordinated
movement of the first pedal 13 and the handle 20 (i.e. a complete
cycle of the first pedal 13 corresponds to a complete cycle of the
handle 20).
[0034] Likewise, a second pedal arm 10 having a first end 70, a
second end 72, and a pivot portion 74 is disposed on the second
side of the apparatus 30, with the first end 70 distal of the
second elongated member 16 and the second end 72 proximal of the
second end 54 of the second elongated member 16. The first end 70
of the second arm 10 is rotatably connected to the second end of
the second crank 8 at pivot 12. The pivot portion 74 of the second
pedal arm 10 is rotatably connected to the second end 54 of the
second elongated member 16 at pivot 18. A second pedal 14
configured to support the left foot of the user is operably
connected to the second pedal arm 16 proximate the second end 72 of
the second pedal arm 10. The location of the pivot 18 relative to
the second pedal 14 will determine the up and down motion of the
second pedal 14, and can be changed according to the present
invention. For example, if the pivot 18 is located distal of the
second pedal 14, the second pedal 14 will have a reciprocating
motion up and down in a generally elliptical path. If the second
pedal 14 is placed directly over the pivot 18, then the second
pedal 14 will move in a reciprocating motion up and down motion in
an arcuate path. The more the pivot 18 is moved distally of the
second pedal 14, the more elliptical the pedal path will be.
Similar to the first pedal 13 described above, a downward force on
the second pedal 14 causes the first crank 8 to rotate in a
clockwise direction (when facing the first crank 8) about the first
axis 2, in turn the second elongated member 16 rotates about the
second axis 19, and the second pedal 14 moves in a steep up and
down reciprocating motion (which may be arcuate or elliptical). The
rotation of the second elongated member 16 about the second axis 19
causes the handle 21 to move through a reciprocating arcuate
motion, which provides for coordinated movement of the second pedal
14 and the handle 10.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 3, another embodiment of a seated
exercise apparatus 90 is shown, which is identical to the seated
exercise apparatus 30, except that the first pedal 13 is rotatably
connected to the first pedal arm 9 and the second pedal 14 is
rotatably connected to the second pedal arm 10. The pedals 13 and
14 can be rotatably coupled to the respective pedal arms 9 and 10
by any suitable means, such as a rotating pin and sleeve
arrangement with the sleeve connected to one of the structures and
the pin connected to the other structure.
[0036] The apparatus 30 is configured such that the major axis of
the reciprocating path of the first and second pedals 13, 14 is
substantially vertical, and preferably at an angle of greater than
45 degrees to horizontal (or the floor) or 60 degrees to
horizontal, or at an angle of greater than 70 degrees horizontal,
or at an angle of greater than 80 degrees to horizontal (wherein
vertical to horizontal is 90 degrees). This more vertical up and
down motion of the pedal 13, 14 provides a more natural motion and
creates less stress on the joints than the devices described above
in which the pedals travel on a more horizontal path as the user is
in a reclined position. Alternatively, the apparatus 30 may provide
a more recumbent path in which the major axis of the path of the
first and second pedals 13,14 is at an angle of 45 degrees or less
to horizontal (or the floor).
[0037] During operation the user sits in a generally upright
position with their body supported by seat 6. The user applies
force to the first and second pedals 13, 14 resulting in a foot
motion that is generally reciprocating. First and second pedals 13,
14 articulate in a manner that allows plantar flexion in the lower
pedal position and dorsi flexion in the upper pedal position. The
first and second handles 20, 21 move in an arcuate motion during
operation of the first and second pedals 13, 14. As all of the
moving parts are coupled at least indirectly to the rotation of the
pulley 3, the motion of the first and second pedals 13, 14 and the
first and second handles 20, 21 are coordinated.
[0038] The first and second pedals 13, 14 throughout their motion
are located proximal of the seat 16. Thus, it can be seen that the
exercise apparatus 30 places less stress on the user's knees and is
easily accessible for older users. Moreover, the apparatus 30 uses
relatively simple pivot mechanisms, making the device easy to
manufacture and assemble.
[0039] Turning now to FIGS. 4-8, another embodiment of a seated
exercise apparatus 30 is shown. The embodiment of FIGS. 4-8 is very
similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, except for a few
modifications as described below. Accordingly, like reference
numerals refer to like elements among the embodiments, and the
description of such elements above with respect to FIGS. 1-3
applies equally to the elements shown in FIGS. 4-8. Thus, such
descriptions are not repeated.
[0040] The major differences in the embodiment of FIGS. 4-8 are the
invertible, adjustable handles 93 and 99, and the modification of
the pedal paths 89 to a closed curvilinear path that is
self-intersecting at an intersection point 105.
[0041] Beginning with a description of the invertible handles shown
in FIGS. 4 and 6-8, the first end 34 of the first elongated member
15 includes a slider tube 91, a first adjustment pin 92 and a first
adjustable handle 93. The first adjustable handle 93 has a tubular
portion 84, a vertical grip 94 (preferably oriented within 30
degrees or less to vertical) and a horizontal grip 95 (preferably
oriented within 30 degrees or less to horizontal) which allows the
user to hold the first adjustable handle 93 in different positions.
The tubular portion 84 is slidably received within the first slider
tube 91 to connect the first adjustable handle 93 to the first end
34 of the first elongated member 15. The adjustment pin 92
releasably locks the first adjustable handle 93 in a set position
to the first end 34 of the first elongated member 15. Other
suitable locking devices may be used in place of the adjustment pin
92, such as a pin and detent mechanism.
[0042] Similarly for the second adjustable handle 99 on the other
side of the apparatus 30, the first end 50 of the second elongated
member 52 includes a slider tube 97, an adjustment pin 98 and a
first adjustable handle 99. The first adjustable handle 99 has a
tubular portion 85, a vertical grip 100 (preferably oriented within
30 degrees or less to vertical) and a horizontal grip 101
(preferably oriented within 30 degrees or less to horizontal) which
allows the user to hold the first adjustable handle 99 in different
positions. The tubular portion 85 is slidably received within the
slider tube 97 to connect the second adjustable handle 99 to the
first end 50 of the second elongated member 52. The adjustment pin
98 releasably locks the second adjustable handle 99 in a set
position to the first end 50 of the second elongated member 52.
Again, other suitable locking devices may be used in place of the
adjustment pin 98, such as a pin and detent mechanism.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 6, the first and second adjustable handles
93 and 99 can easily be inverted to move the handles from an upper
position shown in solid lines to a lower position shown in dashed
lines. The handles 93 and 99 are adjusted between the upper
position and lower position simply by releasing the adjustment pins
92, 98, and rotating the adjustable handles 93 and 99 about the
concentric axes 102, 103 of the tubular portions 84, 85 and slider
tubes 91, 97, thereby rotating tubular portions 84, 85 within the
slider tubes 91, 97, respectively. The first and second adjustable
handles 93, 99 can also be adjusted
[0044] As shown in FIG. 7, the first and second adjustable handles
93 and 99 are in the upper position. In the upper position, the
vertical grips 94, 100 are in a substantially vertical position. In
this upper position of the handles, while holding the vertical
grips 94, 100, the movement of the handles 93, 99 allows the user
to exercise their chest and back muscles, by pushing and pulling
through an upper arcuate motion 96.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 8, the first and second adjustable handles
93 and 99 are in the lower position. Thus, the horizontal grips 95,
101 become positioned generally horizontal with respect to the
floor and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
apparatus 30. In this lower position, the horizontal grips 95, 101
are in a generally lower position and closer to the seated user. In
the lower position, while holding the horizontal hand grips 94,100,
the movement of the handles 93, 99 allows the user to exercise
their biceps and triceps by pushing and pulling through a lower
arcuate motion 104. Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the closed
curvilinear path 89 of the first and second pedals 13, 14 is shown.
The path 89 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4-8 is different than the
path 80 of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 due to the different
configuration of several of the components, such as the shape of
the pedal arms and the elongated members, and the locations of the
pedals and pivots connecting these elements. The different paths 89
shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 show the paths at different points on the
pedals 13, 14. In each case, the path 89 is a closed curvilinear
path that self-intersects at an intersection point 105. In other
words, the width between the path on the up-stroke and the
down-stroke of the pedal converges to zero. The shape of the path
looks like a very elongated figure eight. As can be best seen in
FIG. 5, the point of intersection 105 is different for different
locations on the pedals 13, 14. At the rear of the pedals 13,14,
the intersection point 105 is near the bottom of the path; near the
middle of the pedals 13, 14, the intersection point is near the
middle of the path; and the intersection point at the front of the
pedals 13, 14 is near the top of the path. Accordingly, the path
105 is fairly straight, in a steep up and down motion. The major
axis (a line between the top point of the path and the bottom point
of the path) of the path 105 is preferably at an angles of greater
than 45 degrees to the floor, or at an angle of greater than 70
degrees to the floor, or at an angle of greater than 80 degrees to
the floor 9 (wherein vertical to the floor is 90 degrees).
While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and
described, various modifications may be made without departing from
the scope of the present invention. The invention, therefore,
should not be limited, except to the following claims, and their
equivalents.
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